2026 Funding Cycle

Coming Soon

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What is Upstream?

In 2022, the Region launched the Upstream and Community Capacity Building Funds with the transformational intent of shifting power and resources to the community. These funds support community-led initiatives that align with the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan (CSWP).

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More jobs, stronger economies, and critical service delivery

Discover the ripple effects of Upstream funding in this summary of the latest evaluation by researchers at Wilfrid Laurier University.

View the research summary
Celebrating the 2025 Fund Recipients!

Upstreamers are building a Waterloo Region where everyone feels welcome and valued. Meet the new cohort and learn how they’ll use Upstream funds to support and strengthen their communities.

View the 2025 recipients

Community Funding

By focusing on taking action and centering community voices, we are creating a Waterloo Region where everyone knows they are welcome and valued.

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Safe and Well Region

These funds support community-led initiatives that align with the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan (CSWP).

Visit CSWP Online
Upstream Yearbook

Check out the Upstream Yearbook to learn about the stories and the impacts of this work in the community.

View the 2022 Yearbook

A young girl in a green coat and white dress playing with soap bubbles in a park with green grass and trees.

What is Upstream?

In 2022, the Region launched the Upstream and Community Capacity Building Funds with the transformational intent of shifting power and resources to the community.

These funds support community-led initiatives that align with the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan (CSWP).